Implantable Insulin Pumps
Dateline: 06/10/99
Researchers at the University of Delaware recently announced that "smart" implantable insulin pumps may one day provide relief for people with Type I diabetes. Approximately 16 million people suffer from markedly fluctuating glucose levels because of their body's inability to produce insulin. Insulin helps the body process sugar. Sugar levels must be controlled within a specific range as high levels have been linked to blindness and a host of other medical problems.
The basis of the proposed technique is a sophisticated algorithm for controlling sugar levels. Scientists believe that all of the technology components are now in place--from the mathematical model used to the computer chip necessary to house the instructions. Once the instructions are encoded onto a chip, the result becomes compatible with standard insulin pumps.
If successful, implants will provide much relief to diabetics who now must either prick themselves several times a day to measure blood sugar levels or deal with bulky monitoring systems. Implants will allow people to lead more active lives.
While existing implantable pumps deliver a specific dosage at a specific interval, the goal is for the implants to more closely simulate the normal function of the pancreas by using glucose sensors and the predictive mathematical models. The sensors would assess the level of glucose in the blood and pass the information to the "algorithm." Based on the data, the algorithm would cause the appropriate action by the pump.
Interestingly enough, the algorithms predict based on the past behavior of the insulin-glucose system in the body. This past behavior allows the algorithms to accurately assess and predict for future events.
Scientists are assembling the needed parts into a comprehensive system. They estimate that it will be three to five years before such devices are readily available.
What do you think? Could this implant technology provide relief from other chronic diseases? If so, which ones? Come over to the Biology Forum and share your thoughts, opinions, and feelings.
For related information see:
Fighting Diabetes
Report from the University of Delaware on Science Daily.
Insulin Free Diabetes
An exciting new compound mimics the role of insulin in the body.
